Anti-inflammatory and Anti-cancer Properties of β-Escin, a Triterpene Saponin

Abstract

Horse chestnut seed extract is well known for its anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory medicinal properties. More recently, potential anti-carcinogenic properties have been described. β-Escin, a pentacyclic triterpene saponin with aglycone moieties, is the main active compound in horse chestnut seed extract. Here, we summarize the anti-cancer properties of β-escin in preclinical models, and its potential pharmacological use as an anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of edema and chronic venous insufficiency. The major mechanisms for the anti-inflammatory activities are through modulation of eicosanoids and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB). Anti-proliferation activities occur via induction of p21 and decreased expression of cyclin D1 and anti-apoptotic members of the Bcl-2 family of proteins. In addition, we discuss the clinical pharmacokinetics of β-escin and review the factors that determine its absorption, bioavailability, and distribution in animals. Despite the many beneficial effects of β-escin, it has been studied less extensively in models of cancer. Further studies are warranted to assess the usefulness of β-escin for cancer prevention and therapy.